Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, a Belleville personal injury law firm, has published a public guide detailing essential steps to take after a motor vehicle collision. The guide aims to help local drivers safeguard their health and legal rights during the often confusing and uncertain moments following an accident.
The guide draws on the firm's extensive experience representing individuals injured in motor vehicle collisions. Hipskind & McAninch has recovered more than $50 million on behalf of clients, including a $20 million recovery involving a fatal rear-end collision and a $2 million settlement arising from a head-on crash. The firm's founding partners, John Hipskind and Brady McAninch, previously represented corporate defendants, an experience that informs their approach to personal injury claims.
According to John Hipskind, co-founder of the firm, "An accident can disrupt your life in an instant. While many people are understandably focused on their recovery, the steps they take at the scene and in the days that follow can affect their ability to pursue compensation. We hope this guide helps people make informed decisions during a difficult time."
The guide recommends four key steps. First, prioritize safety and seek medical attention immediately, checking for injuries and calling emergency services if needed. Even if injuries don't appear serious, conditions like whiplash and internal injuries may not present symptoms right away. Second, report the accident by contacting law enforcement to obtain an official accident report. Drivers should provide factual information but avoid speculating about fault or the cause of the collision. Third, document the scene by exchanging contact, driver's license, and insurance information with all involved parties. If safe, photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details, and obtain contact information for any witnesses. Fourth, consider seeking legal guidance before speaking with insurance companies, as representatives may request recorded statements or other documentation soon after an accident. Understanding legal rights before providing detailed statements or signing documents can be beneficial.
The guide reflects Hipskind & McAninch's commitment to educating the public about the legal process following serious accidents. The firm represents clients in matters involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and premises liability, and assists with navigating insurance claims, legal deadlines, and the process of seeking compensation after an injury. Serving Belleville, St. Louis, and communities throughout the Metro East, Hipskind & McAninch has been recognized by Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40.
